St. Mary Star of the Sea Women's Guild welcomes back members

During Hurricane Helene, the property grounds of Ginny Akhoury, a member of the Women's Guild of St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, was completely flooded. She said that she lost many things, including her file cabinet floating away. 

Even after enduring the damages from the hurricanes, the thought of being back with her close friends from Longboat is what has gotten her through these past few weeks. 

"I was really looking forward to this lunch," said Akhoury. "The church has made it known to everyone that they are here for us, so it is nice to be inspired by the hope they promote."

St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church welcomed back its Women's Guild members with the annual luncheon on Nov. 12. After weeks of recovering from the storms, the women are happy to be back with their close friends as they go into the high season.

The ladies attended mass before enjoying a catered lunch from the Lazy Lobster. As the holiday season approaches, the women were able to shop for Christmas decorations and gifts from the Women's Guild Christmas Bazaar, which was on Nov. 9.

Members are looking forward to the upcoming season since many expected it not to happen after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The guild's most anticipated event of the holiday season is its Christmas concert, which will be Dec. 13. 

"As we go into this season, we just pray that everyone stays in good health because that is the most important thing," said the Rev. Robert Dziedziak during his sermon. "At the moment, the island is not pristine, but it will be soon. The spring will come and everything will be beautiful and refreshed. So everyone, keep that in mind as we welcome you back."